Empowering Students for Future Career Success
In collaboration with the NSW Department of Education and Training, HunterNet Career Connections (HCC) continues to champion initiatives aimed at empowering students and cultivating a future-ready workforce. Central to this mission are the School Based Apprentice and Trainee (SBAT) Program and the Educational Pathways Program (EPP), which provide invaluable opportunities for students to explore diverse career pathways across various industries.
The SBAT Program and EPP are integral components of HCC’s commitment to providing students with immersive, hands-on workshops designed to engage them and foster practical skills. These programs have yielded remarkable success stories, exemplified by individuals like Jaycob and Mariah.
Jaycob and Mariah seamlessly transitioned into full-time apprenticeships and school-based apprenticeships at HunterNet Career Connections Host Employer, R&R Murphy. Their journey underscores the effectiveness of the SBAT Program and EPP in identifying and nurturing talent among participants. Jaycob initiated his journey through SBAT participation, while Mariah successfully completed the EPP.
Year 11 students Harmony Etuale and Bella Purcell are among the inspiring success stories, pursuing SBATs towards their Certificate III in Engineering Mechanical Trade (Fitter Machinist). Both students are completing their apprenticeships alongside their school studies, serving as role models for other young women interested in non-traditional trades.
Bella’s path into mechanics was a natural progression, inspired by her family’s legacy in the field. With her father and uncles all being machine fitters, Bella saw mechanics as an obvious next step. Her dedication to the craft and encouragement for other young women to pursue similar paths highlight the transformative impact of programs like SBAT and EPP in breaking gender barriers and fostering inclusivity in traditionally male-dominated industries.
Clay Skinner, Operations Manager at R&R Murphy, “Programs such as these help to prepare and build our future workforce for many years to come.” Clay highlighted the value of providing individuals like Mariah, Jaycob, Harmony, and Bella with nationally recognised qualifications and on-the-job experience while being paid, particularly in the current employment climate.
Cassie Wells from the NSW Department of Education and Training commended the EPP Program for offering a supportive environment, especially through the female-only option noting the importance of providing a comfortable space for participants to build knowledge and explore industries.
HunterNet Career Connections are proud to support individuals like Jaycob, Mariah, Harmony, and Bella, as the tangible outcomes and real-world experiences offered by these programs deliver meaningful outcomes for students, thereby shaping the future workforce.
These success stories underscore the pivotal role of programs like SBAT and EPP in fostering talent, creating opportunities, and bridging the transition from education to employment. We will always remain dedicated to empowering students and building a skilled workforce poised for success in diverse industries.
